BEIJING: China imposed sanctions on seven US companies on Friday in response to Washington’s recent approval of a $571.3 million military aid package to Taiwan, which Beijing claims violates its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Last week, US President Joe Biden authorized the military assistance for Taiwan, a self-governed island that China considers part of its territory. The Chinese foreign ministry criticized the move, accusing the United States of interfering in its internal affairs and undermining its sovereignty.
The sanctions target US defense firms, including Insitu, Hudson Technologies, Saronic Technologies, Aerkomm, and Oceaneering International, along with Raytheon’s subsidiaries in Canada and Australia. The measures freeze their assets in China and prohibit them from conducting business with Chinese entities and individuals.
Beijing also condemned the inclusion of a Taiwan security cooperation initiative in the US 2025 defense budget, along with calls for enhanced defense industrial collaboration with Taipei.
The United States remains Taiwan’s strategic ally and primary arms supplier, despite not officially recognizing the island diplomatically. Meanwhile, China has escalated military pressure, conducting major drills around Taiwan since President Lai Ching-te assumed office in May.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning warned that US support for Taiwan would have repercussions, saying it “will only burn itself.”
